Exercise Is Essential to Conscious Aging

If you’re looking to get fit, or just looking to stay healthy, you already have the right attitude. What you need next is a good plan! Conscious aging is all about owning your life and your health as you get older, rather than waiting for time to pass you by. Take charge of your life and your health by finding the right way to exercise for you!

Should you join your friend at her next Pilates class or go at it alone, adding miles to your treadmill? Do you crave the tranquility and solitude of yoga or the camaraderie that comes from participating in team sports or a walking club?

Are you looking to build up your stamina, improve your flexibility or maintain a healthy weight? There are as many exercise programs out there as there are people, and you need to find one that fits you and your needs.

How Do You Find an Exercise Program That Works for You?

A general rule of thumb is that the best exercise program for you is the one that you can stick with.

That’s the secret.

It’s not about how much money you spend on the program or how beneficial a particular activity is said to be. If it’s not going to work for you, it’s not the one for you.

If you balk at the mere thought of waking up in the wee hours of the morning for yoga, or if a shiver runs down your spine just thinking about dancing in front of other people in Zumba class, then you’re probably not going to stick to these activities in the long run.

Find something that you’ll enjoy doing where you are right now in terms of your body, abilities and time commitment.

Here are some tips to help you along your health journey:

Understand your abilities—Before starting any new fitness program, consult your doctor to see if it’s appropriate and safe for you. For example, if your mobility is limited because of an injury, disease or recent surgery, then running might not be the best option for you. Instead, you might need to look at a lower-impact alternative like walking, swimming or chair cardio.
Manage your expectations—What’s the aim of your exercise program? If your goal is to be the next Fauja Singh after only two months of exercising, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Remember that getting healthy isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon! So take your time and meet yourself where you are. Work your way up slowly.
Listen to your body—If you feel dizzy, nauseous or faint during exercise, you should stop. This is your body telling you that you’re doing too much. If you’re in pain or out of breath well after you’ve finished your workout, you may have been working too hard or at too high of an intensity. Learn to look for these cues so that you can exercise safely.
Consider frequency and consistency—Try to exercise at the same time of day (morning, afternoon or evening) for the same amount of time (20 or 30 minutes is a good initial goal). This will help you make exercising a regular part of your lifestyle.

Exercise is important for your overall health. Making regular physical activity a part of your everyday routine is a path to a healthier, happier life.

So go on, move your body, and have some fun!

Are you committed to staying active and fit throughout your retirement? Contact us at Priya Living to learn more about our health and wellness programs for seniors.